Low back ache

[nbergren]

Hi Cathe-

I have been working out for years doing a wide variety of cardio, weights and yoga. In the past month or so I have dedicated 1 of my 2 days/week of lower body toning to a TOUGH lower body workout and alternate between your PS Standing Legs one week and Firm Standing Legs plus Firm Lower Body Sculpting the next. The barbell I have been using is about 26lbs in plates plus the weight of the bar and the dumbells range from 10-15 lbs. I have noticed definate results in my legs but have also had sort of an achey back lately too and am wondering if this could cause that. If so, how do I work my legs to their limit without hurting my back? I try to be extremely aware of my form... abs in, slight bend in the legs, never lean too far forward, squat to lift and lower the weights, round up, etc... What else can I be doing?

Any help is appreciated. THANKS!

Nancy

 

[Cathe Friedrich]

Hi Nancy! Back aches can be do to so many things. I just simply cannot guess what yours could be from. But I can say that you sound as if you are doing all of the right things when you work with your barbell. The best thing to do to determine what could be bringing on your back achiness is to be completely aware of all of your movements throughout the day. The minute your back acts up, key into exactly what you are doing that second. Chances are it is related to that activity, but that truly is something your doctor needs to evaluate for you. Good luck with everything.

 

[nbergren]

Hi Cathe-

Thanks so much for you input. I must tell you how truly impressed I am with your work outs, your reliable responses to our questions, and your customer service team. One quick example... I recently received a tape from a friend (IMAX) as a gift. The friend lives out of state and unfortuntely the tape had tracking problems. I did not have the receipt since I did not purchase it and could not get it. I was able to send the tape back to you w/ $6 and received a new tape within 2 weeks! I was so excited and loved the work out. It was worth the wait!

Thanks again for all you do!

Nancy

 

[Jane P]

Nancy,

Could you try doing those tapes holding the weights differently or with no extra weight at all. See how your back feels afterwards. If it doesn't hurt, you'll know it's the weights or the way your were carrying them. If your back still hurts, then you know it's a form issue.

 

[kimroberts]

Nancy, if it persists very much longer, please go see a sports medicine doc. I had the same problem and I went to a regular MD who just gave me prescription anti-inflammatory medicine. It didn't help. I waited almost a year later before seeking out a sports medicine specialist who promptly sent me for an MRI. As it turns out, I had a broken L5 vertebra. Both transverse processes were fratured which limits my rotation. He said it was a very common injury for gymnasts--I'm not a gymnast, but Lord knows I jump around a lot. Good Luck!

 

[LEAH]

Hi Nancy,
I am not an expert in these matters, but I have had the same problems in the past (especially when I was pregnant!). A fitness trainer once told my husband that lower back pain is often related to hamstring tightness (which makes sense when you think about it). We all know how important it is to stretch our muscles after a workout, but it is even more important to stretch out the leg muscles with an emphasis on the hamstrings. I have noticed a huge decrease in my lower back pain since I have made an effort to stretch my hamstring muscles after a workout as well as before I go to bed. I hope that this helps you. Good luck!

Leah